The New York State Gaming Commission today announced that New York businesses licensed by its Division of the Lottery to sell tickets for tomorrow’s historic $1.4 billion Powerball drawing have earned a record $9,662,833 in commissions during the 10-week roll up period that began on November 7, 2015. Lottery retailers earn $.12 on each Powerball ticket sold.

“The lottery is proud to support business of all sizes across NYS. This historic jackpot has led to record commissions for retailers and should help these businesses thrive,” said Gardner Gurney, Director of the Division of the Lottery.

Stewart’s Shops Spokeswoman Maria D’Amelia said a jackpot this size affects business in a number of positive ways. “In addition to the positive economic impact, we appreciate the buzz factor that comes with a Lottery jackpot of this size. Our stores are filled with customers staying that extra minute or two to share stories about a past Lottery experience and dream aloud about ‘what-if.’ It helps us build on the sense of community that’s so important to our brand.”

Total Lottery sales, including Powerball, for the current fiscal year up $310,000,000 over last fiscal year, which translates to an increase of $18,000,000 in commissions for the same time period.

Note: National media inquiries regarding Powerball should be directed to Kelly Cripe, Media Relations Director at the Texas Lottery: kelly.cripe@lottery.state.tx.us or at 512-344-5131.

About the New York Lottery

The New York Lottery continues to be North America’s largest and most profitable Lottery, contributing $3.11 billion in fiscal year 2014-2015 to help support education in New York State.  The Lottery’s contribution represents 14 percent of total state education aid to local school districts. 

New York Lottery revenue is distributed to local school districts by the same statutory formula used to distribute other state aid to education.  It takes into account both a school district’s size and its income level; larger, lower-income school districts receive proportionately larger shares of Lottery school funding.